Lehigh Times

Gov. Tom Wolf recently announced that the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) has been approved for $35,970,850 in funds for 213 community revitalizations projects across the state.

According to a Nov. 3 release by Wolf, the program has a focus on low-income neighborhoods and areas of distress, while also assisting with COVID-19 and social justice issues. Businesses that donate to the projects to help community problems are given tax credits. This can be used for projects in categories including affordable housing, community services, crime prevention, education, job training, food access, blight, special population issues, veteran’s initiatives and long-term community revitalization.

“Pennsylvania’s communities are the foundation of our economic success,” Wolf said. “The Neighborhood Assistance Program encourages businesses to make impactful investments in worthy projects across the commonwealth, helping to improve the lives of Pennsylvanians. The rewards we can provide through tax credits in this important program advance and improve communities and ensure Pennsylvania remains the best place to live, work and play.”

In the Lehigh Valley region, there were 22 community investments that includes a project in Berks County to help a minority owned business take a rundown property in Reading and turn it into a spot for fresh produce, meats and a deli. The project will also be a wholesale distribution warehouse and manufacturing facility for fresh dough discs that will create 120 full-time jobs.

In the southeast region, there are 56 community investments including one in Delaware County focused on improving the exterior of 14 homes in the West-End Community Initiative neighborhoods of Chester City. The priority for this project is for eligible property owners who don’t have the financial means to make minor repairs on their homes.

There were 29 community investments in the central region, including a project in Lycoming County for shelter services for 1,400 people per year. Clean and adequate water will be provided to residents through the funds provided.

In the northeast region, there are 27 community investments, with one being in Lackawanna County to help with recovery for veterans, first responders and Gold Star families with PTSD. This includes outdoor activities and nature based therapy, as well as peer-to-peer interaction.

There are 21 community investments in the northwest region including one in Erie County for a 10,000-square-foot athletic center for youth access. It will be a spot for various athletic programs and will also be the home of the Police Athletic League. This includes tutoring and mentoring children and teenagers through sports and recreational activities, and also helping the relationship between youth and police officers.